Why is it called Legend of Zelda instead of Link?

Why is it Called Legend of Zelda instead of Link?

The Legend of Zelda series is one of the most beloved and iconic gaming franchises of all time, with a rich history spanning over three decades. At the heart of the series is the heroic character of Link, a brave warrior who has saved the land of Hyrule countless times. But have you ever wondered why the series is called "The Legend of Zelda" instead of "The Legend of Link"? In this article, we’ll delve into the history and reasoning behind this naming convention.

A Brief History of the Legend of Zelda

The first Legend of Zelda game was released in 1986 for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). The game was created by Shigeru Miyamoto, a renowned game designer and producer who is credited with creating some of Nintendo’s most beloved franchises, including Mario and Donkey Kong. At the time, Miyamoto was looking to create a game that would showcase the NES’s capabilities and challenge players in a new way.

The Inspiration Behind the Name

According to Miyamoto, the name "The Legend of Zelda" was inspired by a chance encounter with a friend, novelist F. Scott Fitzgerald’s wife, Zelda Fitzgerald. Miyamoto was fascinated by the name Zelda, which he thought was both exotic and memorable. He decided to use the name as the title of the game, with the character Link serving as the main protagonist.

Why Not Just Call it "The Legend of Link"?

So why not just call the game "The Legend of Link"? There are a few reasons for this. First, Miyamoto wanted the game to have a more epic and legendary feel, and the name "The Legend of Zelda" helped to convey that sense of grandeur. Second, using the name Zelda rather than Link helped to establish the character as a sort of mythical figure, a legendary hero who was bigger than the protagonist.

The Significance of the Name

The name "The Legend of Zelda" has become synonymous with the series, and has played a significant role in shaping the franchise’s identity and tone. The use of the name Zelda also allowed Miyamoto to explore themes of mythology and fantasy, drawing inspiration from stories such as the Arthurian legends and the works of J.R.R. Tolkien.

The Impact on the Series

The naming convention has had a lasting impact on the series, influencing the way that the games are marketed and perceived by players. The use of the name Zelda has helped to establish the series as a classic and iconic part of gaming culture, and has played a significant role in shaping the franchise’s brand identity.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, the name "The Legend of Zelda" was chosen as a way to convey a sense of epicness and grandeur, and to establish the character of Link as a legendary hero. The use of the name Zelda has had a lasting impact on the series, influencing the way that the games are marketed and perceived by players. While some may wonder why the series isn’t simply called "The Legend of Link," the name "The Legend of Zelda" has become an integral part of gaming culture, and is closely associated with the series and its iconic protagonist.